AN accomplished diver has returned to the sport after a 16-year absence thanks to a Rhondda Cynon Taf Council development scheme and starred at the British Winter Masters.

AN accomplished diver has returned to the sport after a 16-year absence thanks to a Rhondda Cynon Taf Council development scheme and starred at the British Winter Masters.

Matthew Lewis, aged 40, of the Aberdare Comets Diving Club, took gold in the Over-40s category at the event held in Sunderland.

The club meets and trains at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Aberdare Swimming Pool, which has the only dedicated diving pool in Wales.

The British Winter Masters event attracted teams from across Europe in a challenging and dynamic competition designed to test all aspects of a diver’s skill.

Matthew only returned to training four months previously as part of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Diving Development Scheme adult recreational classes after a 16-year break from competitive diving.

Matthew kick-started his first season back on the diving board in November 2012 by taking gold in both the 1m and 3m springboard events at the Irish Open in Dublin.

The British Winter Masters saw Matthew secure gold among a tough field of divers from Holland, Germany, Italy and the UK. He is delighted with his win and says it now acts as a ‘springboard’ for further success.

Coaching sessions and beginner classes, organised by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, are held at Aberdare Swimming Pool five days a week at varying times.

Ages of members of the Aberdare Comets Diving Club range from five to 50. No experience is necessary as all training will be provided.

Matthew said: “I am really happy with the result. It was well worth the long drive to Sunderland. I am now going to be working towards increasing the degree of difficulty of my dive list over the next six months as I would like to challenge myself and take part in the European and World Masters events in 2013.”

The Aberdare Comets Diving Club trains at Aberdare Swimming Pool each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday at varying times, with classes for all ages.

For further details on joining the classes contact Aberdare Swimming Pool on 01685 874252. You can also visit www.rctcbc.gov.uk/leisure